House Republican Press Release

 

 

 

April 24, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

 

Candelora Supports ‘NO TAX INCREASE’ Republican Budget Proposal

 

HARTFORD – Representative Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford) stood with House Republicans today as they unveiled an alternative budget plan that requires no new taxes, is balanced and would save taxpayers at least $1 billion over the next two years without slashing vital state services.  The budget halts the continuous practice of underestimating revenues, resulting in budget surpluses every year, and consistently overtaxing citizens.

 

Candelora said that the towns of the 86th district would receive $3.4 million of additional state education aid under the “No-Tax-Increase” Republican budget alternative with no increase in the state income tax. The Republican budget proposal also would begin to reduce other taxes, including the state income tax on senior citizen pension benefits.

 

In startling contrast to the Democratic plan that would increase spending a whopping $1.7 billion statewide and increase income taxes in North Branford, East Haven and Wallingford by $13.5 million, the Republican plan would spare taxpayers any more pain.

 

Candelora noted that the Republican plan also increases spending in many areas:

·         $358 million in public school funding and $1.1 billion for fully funding teachers’ pensions;

·         Medicaid reimbursement for hospitals increases by $87 million to expand healthcare access for low income families;

·         Another $50 million for other providers and $13 million for nursing homes;

·         Municipal aid for town and city PILOTS, Town Aid Road and the Pequot Fund goes up by $23 million;

·         $20 million for a unique first-time home buyer’s initiative for college graduates that will help keep young people in Connecticut;

·         Dedicates $2 million to help state dairy farmers meet the rising costs of doing business.

 

“This budget offers a clear and distinct alternative to the other budget plans being offered,” said Representative Candelora. “House Republicans recognize that we cannot continue to raise taxes on citizens and on businesses without serious consequences.  Connecticut has already paid a terrible price for its never-ending tax increases.  This budget brings us back to reality.”

 

For more information on the plan, click on: http://www.HouseGOP.ct.gov